In a heartfelt tribute to a cherished community member, Mayor Rachel Proctor declared May 4th as “Arlana Miller Day” in DeSoto.
This declaration honors the memory of Arlana Miller, a cheerleader at Southern University and A&M College in Louisiana who took her own life by walking into the Mississippi River.
Miller, the daughter of Janice Tappin-Miller, who established the Arlana J Miller Check on Your Strong Friends Foundation and Scholarship led a life that profoundly impacted those around her.
The month of May is considered to be mental health awareness month and with the anniversary of Miller, mental health continues to be a priority for her mother.
Miller, a bright 19-year-old cheerleader at Southern University, was known for her vibrant spirit and her dedication to uplifting others.
Her tragic passing in May of last year sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the urgent need for mental health awareness and support.
“We’re letting people know it’s okay to not be okay,” said Tappin-Miller.
“Don’t hide because in our community we are looked at as being weak if we say that we’re not feeling okay.”
Since her daughter’s passing, Tappin-Miller has made it her mission to get legislation passed in Louisiana requiring a licensed counselor to be assigned to every sport from high school to college.
The proposed legislation would also require student-athletes to have a licensed counselor throughout their recovery process.
“We just want to continue to educate people and let them know that your mental health does matter,” said Tappin-Miller
“We’re trying to save our youth especially because they are suffering and it breaks my heart because they’re our future and if we don’t help them now, we’re going to keep losing them.”
The scholarship fund honors Arlana’s legacy by awarding current and future high-achieving cheerleaders at Southern University and A&M College during their matriculation.
Tappin-Miller is not only a mother but an educator, whose family has been pillars in the DeSoto community for years.
Arlana’s story is a stark reminder of the silent battles many face and shows the importance of a supportive community.
“Arlana’s legacy will live on forever and we will help you uphold it by advocating for the importance of mental health awareness and encouraging regular check-ins with those we love!” said Mayor Proctor.
